Mucosal immune tone

Mucosal immune tone refers to the baseline physiological state of immune activity and homeostasis maintained within mucosal tissues, such as the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urogenital tracts (Mowat & Agace, 2014, Nature Reviews Immunology). It represents a dynamic equilibrium between active surveillance against pathogens and the maintenance of tolerance toward commensal microorganisms and harmless environmental antigens (Belkaid & Hand, 2014, Cell). This state is governed by a sophisticated interplay of epithelial barriers, specialized immune cells like regulatory T cells (Tregs), and biochemical signals such as secretory IgA and anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 (Pabst, 2012, Nature Reviews Immunology). When this tone is disrupted, it can lead to chronic inflammatory conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), asthma, or food allergies (Abraham & Medzhitov, 2011, Gastroenterology). While 'mucosal immune tone' is a descriptive physiological concept rather than a single molecular target, many therapeutic interventions aim to modulate this environment. For instance, biologics like vedolizumab or various probiotics and prebiotics are used to influence specific pathways or microbial compositions to restore a healthy mucosal balance (Hooper et al., 2012, Science).

Other names

Mucosal homeostasisMucosal immune homeostasisBasal mucosal immunity